Mass Audubon Elects Jared Chase New Board Chair

Michael P. O'Connor

Mass Audubon, a premier voice for conservation in Massachusetts and New England, has elected Jared Chase of Wellesley as Chair of its Board of Directors.Chase brings 35 years’ experience in global finance and investment management to the position, and that background will help ensure the organization remains strong in its mission to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with nature.

Since joining the board in 1998, Chase has contributed his expertise to multiple committees, and has developed a comprehensive understanding of the renowned conservation nonprofit. Mass Audubon operates 53 wildlife sanctuaries across the state, from Cape Cod to the Berkshires, as well as an overnight camp in Rindge, New Hampshire.He had served as Vice Chair since 2006 before succeeding Jonathan Panek, whose term as Chair ended in 2012. Chase supports Mass Audubon’s growing involvement in climate change and renewable energy issues, as a natural outgrowth of its ongoing mission to promote birdlife and biodiversity, protect land and wildlife habitats, and support nature-based education.

The new Board Chair, 57, was drawn to the natural world as a youth by his father’s efforts to restore the Farmington River in Connecticut, which eventually achieved federal Wild and Scenic status. Such experiences as a young person can be formative and long lasting, Chase noted.“So I believe it’s really important to get to kids early and get them invested in the outdoors,” he added.

“I’m proud of Mass Audubon’s long-standing commitment to biodiversity, land protection, and other important goals that enhance our collective quality of life,” Chase said. “I’m also humbled by the organization’s faith in me and excited about its growing role in the conservation future of the Commonwealth.”Chase also serves on the New England Aquarium Board of Overseers and on the York (ME) Land Trust Board of Directors.

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Mass Audubon protects more than 38,000 acres of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As Massachusetts' largest nature conservation nonprofit, we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to our wildlife sanctuaries and 20 nature centers. From inspiring hilltop views to breathtaking coastal landscapes, serene woods, and working farms, we believe in protecting our state's natural treasures for wildlife and for all people's vision shared in 1896 by our founders, two extraordinary Boston women.

Today, Mass Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental education leader, offering thousands of camp, school, and adult programs that get over 225,000 kids and adults outdoors every year. With more than 135,000 members and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve the natural heritage of our beautiful state for today's and future generations. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at www.massaudubon.org.

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Mass Audubon is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 04-2104702) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to Mass Audubon are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law.